Psychiatrists in Trumbull County, OH

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Photo of Jerret Kolesar, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jerret Kolesar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate challenges that hinder the experience of the beauty and joy of life. I look to build healthy and trustworthy relationships with clients in order to tackle some of life's most difficult issues. In a confidential and safe environment, I address areas of addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, marital/premarital counseling, etc. I am able to address minor and major problems that are impeding you from experiencing your full potential.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate challenges that hinder the experience of the beauty and joy of life. I look to build healthy and trustworthy relationships with clients in order to tackle some of life's most difficult issues. In a confidential and safe environment, I address areas of addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, marital/premarital counseling, etc. I am able to address minor and major problems that are impeding you from experiencing your full potential.
(234) 742-4495 View (234) 742-4495
Photo of Melissa Gelsomino, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Gelsomino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mineral Ridge, OH 44440  (Online Only)
Hi, and thank you for taking the time to invest in your mental health. Are you having a hard time balancing family, work, and life? Are you struggling with stress, avoidance and anxiety about the future? Are you just ready for a change and aren't sure how to make a plan of action?
Hi, and thank you for taking the time to invest in your mental health. Are you having a hard time balancing family, work, and life? Are you struggling with stress, avoidance and anxiety about the future? Are you just ready for a change and aren't sure how to make a plan of action?
(330) 778-4286 View (330) 778-4286
Photo of Rebekah Rubesich, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebekah Rubesich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
Rebekah Rubesich is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a wide range of mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and trauma-focused care for children, adolescents, and adults. With a particular passion for women’s mental health and perinatal psychiatry, Rebekah provides expert guidance for postpartum depression, anxiety, infertility, and loss.
Rebekah Rubesich is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a wide range of mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and trauma-focused care for children, adolescents, and adults. With a particular passion for women’s mental health and perinatal psychiatry, Rebekah provides expert guidance for postpartum depression, anxiety, infertility, and loss.
(330) 446-3739 View (330) 446-3739
Photo of Mary G. Hall, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary G. Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
I care about my patients and listen to his or her needs to come up with the best individualized treatment plan. I diagnose and treat all mental health conditions with appropriate medications as needed. I do this in a holistic manner, meaning I treat the patient as a whole rather than a sum of his or her parts. I will run appropriate bloodwork as well as treat mental health conditions in the context of any chronic illness the patient may be suffering. I am here to help.
I care about my patients and listen to his or her needs to come up with the best individualized treatment plan. I diagnose and treat all mental health conditions with appropriate medications as needed. I do this in a holistic manner, meaning I treat the patient as a whole rather than a sum of his or her parts. I will run appropriate bloodwork as well as treat mental health conditions in the context of any chronic illness the patient may be suffering. I am here to help.
(234) 235-3864 View (234) 235-3864
Photo of Stacy Horvath, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Horvath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering medication management. I am here to work with you to find the best treatment plan to manage those symptoms that are interfering with your life. We work together as team to make decisions that are informed and beneficial to your individual needs. My goal is to create a space that is supportive and free from judgment. I believe every single person deserves compassionate and comprehensive care.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering medication management. I am here to work with you to find the best treatment plan to manage those symptoms that are interfering with your life. We work together as team to make decisions that are informed and beneficial to your individual needs. My goal is to create a space that is supportive and free from judgment. I believe every single person deserves compassionate and comprehensive care.
(330) 366-1921 View (330) 366-1921
Photo of Stephanie Stecker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Stecker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newton Falls, OH 44444
I am a strong believer in psychotherapy combined with medication management to achieve optimal mental health wellness. I am dedicated to understanding each client’s life experiences, traumas and personal holistic health goals. I also value the relationship between provider and client and will strive to build a foundation of trust, openness, and understanding to guide clients through a healthy and active life. Every treatment will be individualized and I will pay special attention to holistic care and treat every patient with compassion. Age range of patients served: 17 years and older
I am a strong believer in psychotherapy combined with medication management to achieve optimal mental health wellness. I am dedicated to understanding each client’s life experiences, traumas and personal holistic health goals. I also value the relationship between provider and client and will strive to build a foundation of trust, openness, and understanding to guide clients through a healthy and active life. Every treatment will be individualized and I will pay special attention to holistic care and treat every patient with compassion. Age range of patients served: 17 years and older
(330) 578-4300 View (330) 578-4300
Photo of Candice Wood, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Candice Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Newton Falls, OH 44444
I work with clients experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, anger, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, dementia, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) disorder, and mental health symptoms during recovery from addiction. I offer both in office and telehealth appointments.
I work with clients experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, anger, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, dementia, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) disorder, and mental health symptoms during recovery from addiction. I offer both in office and telehealth appointments.
(330) 578-4300 View (330) 578-4300
Photo of Kassandra Kornbau, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kassandra Kornbau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warren, OH 44484
I received my Doctorate of Nursing Practice in 2018, and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by ANCC. My goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatment through evidence-based practices. My clinical interests include, but are not limited to, the following: attention deficit disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, depressive disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, binge eating disorder, and mood disorders.
I received my Doctorate of Nursing Practice in 2018, and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by ANCC. My goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatment through evidence-based practices. My clinical interests include, but are not limited to, the following: attention deficit disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, depressive disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, binge eating disorder, and mood disorders.
(330) 729-5770 View (330) 729-5770
Photo of Dr. Steven A King, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Steven A King
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
NOW OFFERING TELEHEALTH. Compassionate, caring and confidential psychiatric care and medication management provided in a comfortable and conveniently located Boardman office. Counseling is also available to augment treatment and improve patient outcomes.
NOW OFFERING TELEHEALTH. Compassionate, caring and confidential psychiatric care and medication management provided in a comfortable and conveniently located Boardman office. Counseling is also available to augment treatment and improve patient outcomes.
(234) 204-4410 View (234) 204-4410
Photo of Lisa Mascioli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Mascioli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niles, OH 44446
Lisa is committed to delivering compassionate care to all clients. My mission is to promote warmth and kindness in the community by providing integrative psychiatric care that includes medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. I am honored to be a part your journey towards wellness and look forward to serving you with the professionalism
Lisa is committed to delivering compassionate care to all clients. My mission is to promote warmth and kindness in the community by providing integrative psychiatric care that includes medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. I am honored to be a part your journey towards wellness and look forward to serving you with the professionalism
(740) 480-3904 View (740) 480-3904
Photo of Jennifer Joseph - Aspire Mental Health, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aspire Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44481
At Aspire Mental health we strive to provide a safe, calming environment to allow for progress through your mental health journey. We offer numerous treatment options including counseling, medication management, spravato, EMDR and other treatment modalities. We are a LGBT safe space and pride ourselves on love and acceptance.
At Aspire Mental health we strive to provide a safe, calming environment to allow for progress through your mental health journey. We offer numerous treatment options including counseling, medication management, spravato, EMDR and other treatment modalities. We are a LGBT safe space and pride ourselves on love and acceptance.
(330) 771-9652 View (330) 771-9652
Photo of Jennifer Joseph, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44482
I strive to provide a place of comfort and safety, free of judgment or demands. I see myself as part of your treatment team. I provide education, options, and support. I will help you set goals and we work together to achieve these. I have successfully helped clients achieve remission of their depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and psychosis. You will be treated as an individual and will be given the respect and consideration you deserve.
I strive to provide a place of comfort and safety, free of judgment or demands. I see myself as part of your treatment team. I provide education, options, and support. I will help you set goals and we work together to achieve these. I have successfully helped clients achieve remission of their depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and psychosis. You will be treated as an individual and will be given the respect and consideration you deserve.
(330) 964-5150 View (330) 964-5150

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Ashleigh Noel - Healthy Minds for You, LPA, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healthy Minds for You, LPA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Telehealth or in-office appointments are offered to clients residing anywhere in Ohio. I started my career in health care as a Medic in the United States Army. I then pursued my education as a nurse first obtaining my Associates Degree as a Registered Nurse and then my Bachelors of Science in Nursing Degree. I worked on Psychiatric and Acute Care units in the hospital setting for 6 years. Throughout that time, I obtained a Master of Science in Advanced Practice Nursing Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner followed by a Master of Science in Advanced Practice Nursing Degree as a Mental Health Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Telehealth or in-office appointments are offered to clients residing anywhere in Ohio. I started my career in health care as a Medic in the United States Army. I then pursued my education as a nurse first obtaining my Associates Degree as a Registered Nurse and then my Bachelors of Science in Nursing Degree. I worked on Psychiatric and Acute Care units in the hospital setting for 6 years. Throughout that time, I obtained a Master of Science in Advanced Practice Nursing Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner followed by a Master of Science in Advanced Practice Nursing Degree as a Mental Health Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
(330) 915-2773 View (330) 915-2773
Photo of Krista McDonald, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krista McDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126  (Online Only)
Krista Mousted is a dual certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health, who has been practicing since 2007. She graduated from University of Tampa with a master's degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master's certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master's certificate in psychiatric mental health. Her current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner Krista worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
Krista Mousted is a dual certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health, who has been practicing since 2007. She graduated from University of Tampa with a master's degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master's certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master's certificate in psychiatric mental health. Her current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner Krista worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
(216) 626-7105 View (216) 626-7105
Photo of Kimberly Tindell, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Tindell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austintown, OH 44515
Meet Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meet Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
(330) 648-4814 View (330) 648-4814
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Elyria, OH 44035
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(937) 862-0573 View (937) 862-0573
Photo of Daniel Gonzalez, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Gonzalez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Accepting new patients! My name is Dr. Daniel Gonzalez. I'm a Cleveland native who completed undergraduate at Miami University of Ohio before going into medical school at the University of Toledo. After obtaining my medical degree (M.D.), I then completed my Adult Psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic. I am currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in Adult Psychiatry. I work exclusively with adults (18+), and while I have a special interest in mood and anxiety disorders I see the full spectrum of psychiatric illnesses. I also particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
Accepting new patients! My name is Dr. Daniel Gonzalez. I'm a Cleveland native who completed undergraduate at Miami University of Ohio before going into medical school at the University of Toledo. After obtaining my medical degree (M.D.), I then completed my Adult Psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic. I am currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in Adult Psychiatry. I work exclusively with adults (18+), and while I have a special interest in mood and anxiety disorders I see the full spectrum of psychiatric illnesses. I also particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
(216) 369-6523 View (216) 369-6523
Photo of Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44106  (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of David Kwon, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Kwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
North Olmsted, OH 44070
David Kwon is a board-certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner. He master's and doctoral degrees in nursing from Case Western Reserve University. His previous experience includes providing psychiatric services to patients in both community and private practice settings. He currently provides medication management to adult patients ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
David Kwon is a board-certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner. He master's and doctoral degrees in nursing from Case Western Reserve University. His previous experience includes providing psychiatric services to patients in both community and private practice settings. He currently provides medication management to adult patients ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(440) 750-1162 View (440) 750-1162
Photo of Robert Kilmer, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robert Kilmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
Fred is a warm and approachable provider who is dedicated to helping people achieve their mental health goals. He has over a decade of experience in mental health resulting in a wealth of knowledge and expertise to offer his patients. He uses a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to care and is committed to providing the highest quality care to each and every one of his patients.
Fred is a warm and approachable provider who is dedicated to helping people achieve their mental health goals. He has over a decade of experience in mental health resulting in a wealth of knowledge and expertise to offer his patients. He uses a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to care and is committed to providing the highest quality care to each and every one of his patients.
(440) 276-8215 View (440) 276-8215

See more therapy options for Trumbull County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Trumbull County, OH

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Psychiatrists in Trumbull County, OH who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
83% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
58% Psychosis

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
82% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Trumbull County, OH see their clients

92% In Person and Online
8% Online Only

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Trumbull County?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.